“School holidays are especially difficult for low income families whose children usually receive free school meals or support from breakfast clubs,” he told the newspaper.

In May a letter signed by 170 members of the faculty, the leading professional body for more than 3,300 public health specialists in the UK, was sent to David Cameron pressing for action over the issue of food poverty.

Part of the letter to the Prime Minister said: “Many hardworking families in the UK are living in poverty and do not have enough income for a decent diet.”